Our Programs

Music and Art

A music and arts program is crucial in the development of well-rounded children and adults. Our music and arts program allows students to further engage their right-brain which helps to develop increased modes of expression, imagination, and sparks creative problem-solving skills. Students regularly participate in activities such as learning and understanding music, creating various types of art, and writing and performing in plays or skits.

Math and Science

Though people of color have traditionally been under-represented in the fields of math and science, NVA puts a strong focus on the development of these skills. Students are exposed to the wonders of the world through hands-on science experiments as well as through developing an understanding of how science fits into our everyday lives. As well, students are intimately connected to the ways math operates on both our macro and micro worlds.

Reading

Reading is the skill on which everything else is built. Reading opens doors. Students are simultaneously taught the importance and the joy of reading. In addition to reading in Language Arts and other courses, NVA observes a time set aside each day where everyone in the school drops whatever they are doing and just read. Several reading initiatives are also practiced such as older students reading to younger students as well as mentors from the community doing one-on-one reading with the students.

Health and Nutrition

The importance of learning about proper health and nutrition cannot be overstated. In a time when our society is becoming less physically active yet exposed to many quick food fixes, our students learn how to make healthy food choices and the need to keep the body active. Students and parents are taught the effects of various foods on the body and are exposed to delicious yet healthy alternative foods. Students are also exposed to a variety of physical activities so that they can experience activities that they can enjoy while getting strong and fit.

Rites of Passage/Mentorship

Having role models while negotiating through the real world can be invaluable to children. Each week our students are paired with upstanding citizens of our community for a variety of one-on-one activities. Students learn to be productive members in their homes and communities with the assistance of mentors who participate weekly in activities such as cooking, sewing, cleaning, neighborhood cleanup, and other community service outings.

Financial Literacy

Adults and children alike benefit from the Financial Literacy program at NVA. How to earn, budget, save, and invest money are just a few of the basics learned. Saving money on taxes, interacting with financial institutions, maintaining good credit and credit repair, and methods of home ownership and home improvement are also taught in this program.

Computer Literacy

In our technological age, our students utilize the computer daily for research, computer-based learning activities, exposure to computer programs, and for interacting with other students across the world. In addition, our Computer Literacy Program extends to people of our community. The elderly, as well as youth, utilize the computer lab in order to learn basic computer usage skills.